Gymnastics community mourns the loss of Aaron Johnson

It is with great sadness that Gymnastics BC notifies the gymnastics community of the passing of Aaron Johnson. A Gymnastics Canada and Gymnastics BC Life Member and husband of Shasta Trampoline Team head coach Valerie Johnson, Aaron passed away unexpectedly in hospital on Thursday, November 29.

Aaron worked with Gymnastics BC as the Trampoline Technical Coordinator and served as a coaching clinic facilitator for many years. His circus arts experience was invaluable in the development of Gymnastics BC’s ACRiX program. He was also a key member of the association’s risk management committee that created the Safety First program.

Aaron’s passing is a great loss to the gymnastics community throughout British Columbia, across Canada and around the world.

A trampoline and circus life

With a reputation of being one of the highest bouncers in the world, Aaron was the 1975 and 1976 Canadian Senior Trampoline Champion. He was also the first Canadian to compete a Triffis - a twisting triple somersault. He competed at the 1974 World Championships and retired from competition due to injury in 1976.

Aaron moved on to become the Canadian Trampoline Coaching Chairman and, along with other trampoline experts, began development of a safety manual. The result was the NCCP Trampoline Technical Manual, recognized worldwide as the safest and most progression based system for teaching trampoline.

He also began coaching at Shasta Trampoline Team in 1977 and was Canada’s National Coach from 1979 to 1990. Among his coaching highlights were Canada’s first World double mini trampoline gold in 1982 by Christine Tough and bronze medals by Vikki Bullock in 1984 and Jeremy Brock in 1992.

Aaron joined Cirque du Soleil in 1999, working in Las Vegas with Mystere at Treasure Island. After returning to Canada, Aaron and his son Travis opened the Vancouver Circus School in New Westminster and Whistler. For eight years, the school has provided circus opportunities to the community.

The Johnson family has requested privacy during this difficult time. Further details will be made available in accordance with their wishes.